Saving money doesn’t have to be a dull or restrictive experience. In fact, there are plenty of fun and enjoyable ways to cut costs and boost your savings. Here are 5 creative and entertaining ways to have fun while keeping your budget in check.
Host Game Nights
Host regular game nights with family or friends. Board games, card games, and trivia contests can provide hours of entertainment and laughter at little to no cost. You can even create themed nights or friendly competitions to up the entertainment factor.
Save even more money by making your game night a potluck dinner. Each guest can bring their own dish and guests will enjoy a diverse menu and while discovering new recipes.
Schedule Staycations
If you love exploring and traveling, removing vacations from your budget may seem unheard of or simply off-limits. But remember, this is only temporary and there are still ways to relax and recharge without spending money on airfare and lodging.
Replacing your vacation with a staycation doesn’t have to mean staying at home “couch rotting” and streaming movies the whole time – although relaxation should definitely be part of it. If you’re looking for more adventure, plan your staycation just as you would a vacation. Block off the dates and plan an itinerary to visit local attractions. Make reservations at restaurants you never seem to get around to trying or take a day trip to a nearby town to experience new scenery.
More Gardening, Less Grocery Shopping
Gardening isn’t just a way to save money on groceries. Many find it to be a relaxing and rewarding hobby. Start a small vegetable garden or grow herbs in pots on your windowsill. Not only will you enjoy fresh produce, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the food you eat while reducing your grocery bill.
Stay Fit Without the Fees
Outdoor Workouts
Take advantage Michigan’s warmer seasons moving your workouts to parks, trails, and beaches. Not only will you ditch expensive gym fees, you’ll get an upgrade in scenery.
Home Workouts (no expensive equipment necessary)
Bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks require no equipment and are still very effective – and challenging!
Online Fitness Programs
Trade your gym membership for free at-home workouts on YouTube. Other fitness apps provide structured programs and personalized coaching for a fraction of the cost of a gym membership.
Community Classes and Events
Many communities offer free or low-cost fitness classes and events.
Transform Your Space with DIY Decor
This is the era of DIY, with Pinterest, YouTube, and social media brimming with tutorials. So why spend money on items you can create yourself?
One of the most popular DIY decor trends is upcycling and repurposing old items. Transforming discarded furniture, jars, or fabrics into stylish home accents not only saves money but also promotes sustainability. For example, an old ladder can be turned into a chic bookshelf, or mason jars can be painted and used as decorative vases or storage containers.
Looking for some ideas? Check out these Easy DIY Projects for Your Backyard
Michigan Mortgage Lender Julie Krumholz from Superior National Bank
Julie Krumholz from Superior National Bank has been helping homeowners navigate the home buying process for over 35 years. She’s experienced nearly every facet of the mortgage industry, from processing, closing, loan origination, underwriting, QC auditing, and even co-owning a mortgage brokerage firm. Her wealth of knowledge makes her a trusted resource and friend.
